“The Rock: St. Louis’ Historic Black Catholic Church and Its Afrocentric Legacy
A church symbolizes the body of Christ. It is a place where congregants gather to give their praise to the Most High. The St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church, commonly known as “The Rock,” extends an invite to anyone in the St. Louis region. Specifically, it welcomes those who wish to learn more about Catholicism and its practices, all with an added spice of Afrocentrism.
The Rock is a historical Black Catholic church based in St. Louis, Missouri, and its history runs deep. It all began back in 1861 when Archbishop Peter Richard Kenrick invited the Redemptorists, a Catholic congregation, to live permanently in the city of St. Louis.
Building a Foundation of Faith
On May 1, 1867, workers broke ground for the creation of the church. Just six months later, on November 3rd, Reverend Joseph Melcher laid and blessed its cornerstone. The Rock Church earned its nickname from the Gothic stone used in its construction. Additionally, a rock wall built to surround the church contributed to the name.
Construction on the church continued until 1872. That same year, Archbishop Patrick J. Ryan officially dedicated the church.
Over the last two centuries, the church has celebrated many milestones. For instance:
- Beautiful stained glass windows were installed in 1904.
- The Rock started the weekly novena in honor of Our Mother of Perpetual Help in 1922.
- The St. Alphonsus School integrated in 1948.
- In 1961, Father Wendell Sams became the first Black Redemptorist priest ordained for the St. Louis Province.
To see a complete list of The Rock’s historical milestones, you can click here.
Since the 1800s, the St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church has served as a beacon of hope and fellowship for individuals in the Missouri area. Moreover, the church is still going strong today. Its congregation has expanded, and the church now welcomes people from all walks of life with open arms.
If you would like to learn more about The Rock church or get information regarding their Mass times, we encourage you to visit their website.
Meet Father Royce
Father Royce Thomas, C.Ss.R., is the new pastor of St. Alphonsus “The Rock” Catholic Church. As a Redemptorist priest with a passion for building faith-filled communities, Father Royce recently served as chaplain and campus minister at Immaculata University. There, he was known for inspiring service, prayer, and social justice. Now leading The Rock, he brings his warm leadership and commitment to joyful discipleship. He welcomes all who seek a deeper connection in faith and community.
Learn more about “The Rock” church
The vibrant stained-glass windows of St. Alphonsus Rock Church are a historic Black Catholic landmark in St. Louis.
In February 2025, a major development occurred. The National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Preserving Black Churches Fund, supported by the Lilly Foundation, awarded $500,000 to St. Alphonsus Liguori “Rock” Catholic Church. This grant will help restore 28 historic stained glass windows, thereby ensuring its legacy for future generations.
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